One of our most memorable outings ever was to North Cape on Prince Edward Island which we visited recently. We saw on social media about seals at North Cape and changed our plans that morning in the hope of spotting some. We weren’t disappointed with the seals but they were a small part of the experience that day.
North Cape is on the northwest tip of the island and on a beautiful autumn day, the hour drive was enjoyable. When we arrived, the seals were obvious,
on the rock reef, part of the longest such natural reef in North America. There the waters of the Northumberland Strait and the Gulf of St. Lawrence merge.
Double crested cormorants and a variety of gulls enjoyed one end of the reef
while the seals took up two areas at the far end.
Looking at the water nearby, bobbing heads of the furry mammals basked in the sun between fishing forays into the briny blue.
Meanwhile, human fishers shared in the bounty of marine life as well.
We walked along the shoreline to the sea arch in the area which has greatly expanded since our last visit. Storms may make a sea stack out of this arch in the near future.
The trails along the shoreline are lined with grass which was full of crickets in an orchestra that was loud but tuned. As we walked by, dozens of Savannah Sparrows flew out of the grass and flew nearby, waiting for us to pass so they could continue lunch. This one landed on a nearby rock on the shoreline.
We had lunch at the head of the Black Marsh Trail, and listened to the sounds of the crickets and the sea. Afterwards, we walked the trail and watched three Turkey Vultures as they sailed on the thermals above the shoreline, smelling and looking for carrion.
The trail meanders along the edge of the shoreline and through trees nearby. One viewing area lets observers see what lies ahead.
The wind turbines in the scene always give me hope that one day, humankind will be easier on our environment.
At the black marsh, we sat and looked out over the landscape, a marsh which is familiar to Newfoundlanders like us, containing cloudberries and pitcher plants.
We continued on to the sea stack, past the remains of the trees along the shoreline. Weathered by sea spray and wind, they stand as sculptures created by nature’s hand.
When we arrived back near the reef, we noticed sea birds enjoying the area too, floating around among the seals bobbing in the water. Eider Ducks, Scoters and Mergansers added to the nature quest for the day.
Nearby, a small flock of Sanderlings landed on the rocks in front of us.
On the way home, we stopped at St. Simon and St. Jude Roman Catholic Church to see man’s creation compared to the natural one we had just left.
The church is a beauty, with some stained glass windows, not often seen in island churches. Its ceiling is reminiscent of a night sky.
It was a gorgeous fall day on the island and at every turn, there was something to appreciate and enjoy!